Automation Equipment Services Group
Automation Equipment Services Group
Automation Equipment Service Group
 
Experts In Automation Equipment Maintenance and Customer Support.

Robotic Systems in the Semiconductor Industry

Robotic Automation

A computer chip starts out as a silicon crystal that is grown into a large cylindered piece and then sliced into wafers. These wafers are then ground to specific standards that may have one or two of what the industry calls "flats". The flats designate the specific conductivity of the wafer as well as being used as a way of aligning the wafer through out the many phases of the manufacturing process that relies heavily on robotic systems. A flat finder or pre-aligner is used during different sequences of the robotic automation system to locate the flat and orient the wafer for the next process. AESG is fully aware of the many and differing processes of robotic automation system used in the semiconductor industry. They provide flat finder refurbishment or pre-aligner refurbishment and flat finder repair or pre-aligner repair.


The Flat finder

In addition to problems with the robotics in the automation system there may be malfunctions with the pre-aligners/flat finders and/or the control box. Orientation of the wafer is a critical function through out the manufacturing process. There is a great need for speed and accuracy with these devices. AESG is a specialist in pre-aligner robot calibrations. Pre-aligner robot calibrations are conducted in both a pre-aligner repair and a pre-aligner refurbishment. A pre-aligner repair consists of a full diagnostic on the whole devise to pinpoint the malfunction. The pre-aligner is then given a full inspection to determine worn parts and potential failures. AESG performs a 24-hour cycle test on every pre-aligner before it is delivered to the customer. A pre-aligner refurbishment includes replacement of a number of parts including drive belts, flex cables, vacuum solenoid and sensor switch. AESG performs a 48-hour burn-in test for repeatability with documented results before the flat finder is returned to the customer. Qualified professionals must perform flat finder repair and flat finder refurbishment. AESG has 25 years experience in the semiconductor industry. They have specialists in all areas of semiconductor robotics including robots, pre-aligners or flat finders and controllers. AESG delivers quality first and quick turnaround times at a competitive price.